FASHION changeable. 253 
The greater the neceflities of the public, the more prodigality- 
in private life ! Is it not true, madam, that hardly a cham- 
bermaid now thinks her condition supportable, unlefs fhe cuts 
more filk to pieces to adorn her gown, than would be fuffi- 
cient to make one? And for what is all this? methinks you 
all appear like women of shreds ; inftead of ornaments, your 
garments look as if they were in rags. Is this extravagance 
moft melancholy to think of, or moft ridiculous to behold? 
It is a fample of the times : however, begin with difcourage- 
ing the ufe of tea, and I fhall live in hopes you will foon cor- 
rect yourfelves, and a<ft in all refpedts like rational creatures. I 
verily believe you muft doit ’ere long from necessity ; but it 
will be more for your honor if it is done from choice, and with 
a view to save your country from ruin. Adieu. I am. 
yours, & Pf* 
FART 
